Pelham Board approves Ross Newton as head football coach

The Pelham City Board of Education voted Jan. 16 to hire Ross Newton as the head football coach for Pelham City Schools, approving the recommendation by voice vote during a special-called meeting.

The decision followed a multi-stage search led by Athletic Director Trey Simpson and an interview committee that included school principals, assistant superintendents and human-resources staff. The committee screened about 30 applicants and invited seven finalists to a formal interview process, officials said.

"I'm so thankful going through this process. It's the first time I've ever done this and I'm extremely thankful to our athletic director, coach Trey Simpson," said Miss Touchstone, who said the interviews convinced her Newton would push the program and that she would support his work. "When we were interviewing this gentleman, I was very uncomfortable at times because I realized how much work I need to do as a principal to support him…and I promise you you have my support."

Trey Simpson thanked the board and city for supporting the schools' ability to recruit candidates. "When we met with coach Newton and saw his long term vision and his passion from pre-k to 12th grade, he's got a vision and a plan for our whole community," Simpson said.

Ross Newton, who addressed the board after the recommendation, said he and his family plan to relocate to Pelham. "I'm honored and excited and fired up to be the head coach at a place like that," Newton said. "I know what an impact a head coach can have on young men, on the school, on the entire community, and we are so excited to go do that."

Board members praised the committee's process and welcomed Newton. Bob O'Neil said he looked forward to hearing more about Newton's plans for youth sports and community engagement. President Hester called the hiring "approved" after a motion and second and a voice vote in which members answered "aye."

The interview committee said weather delayed parts of the process and required scheduling interviews on a Sunday, but committee members described the search as thorough and said they checked references beyond those listed by the candidate. Human-resources staff reported the applicant pool totaled 30, narrowed to seven finalists for formal screening and multiple interview rounds.

The board announced a regular meeting for Jan. 27 at 6:30 p.m. at Pelham Park Middle School and adjourned the special meeting after approving Newton's hire.

Votes at a glance Motion: Approve recommendation to hire Ross Newton as head football coach for Pelham City Schools. Motion made and seconded; voice vote. Outcome: Approved.